14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is working hard to bring Windows 10 devices in sync, so the majority of features that are currently available on PC are also offered to mobile phones, with the firm aiming to provide the same look, feel, and feature pack no matter the device and screen size.
One way to connect phones and PCs was a feature called “Messaging Everywhere,” which Microsoft discontinued earlier this year in order to replace it with a newer implementation baptized SMS Relay that makes a little bit more sense for the company’s plans.
With SMS Relay, users are allowed to connect their Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile devices and synchronize text messages, while also being able to send SMS right from the desktop.
Update Skype Preview to get it
Previously introduced to users who were enrolled in the Windows Insider program’s fast ring, SMS Relay has recently been promoted to the Release Preview ring, which is the last important step before public release. This means that testing and bug hunting have completed successfully until now and the feature only has one more milestone to reach before getting the go-ahead.
Microsoft hasn’t actually announced the availability of SMS Relay for users in the Release Preview ring, but users who are running Windows 10 builds delivered as part of this channel started seeing it a couple of days ago. Skype Preview needs to be updated in order to get access to SMS Relay, so simply fire up the store and go update the app if you want to give it a try.
For the moment, there is no information regarding the target launch date for SMS Relay, and since the new feature is currently being tested with Windows insiders, it makes sense for Microsoft to keep such details away from our ears.
Bugs can hold back the release at the very last minute, and this would obviously disappoint users, so it’s just better for Microsoft to continue working on the feature behind closed doors and release it when it’s ready.